Volcanic eruption in Peru sends ash cloud 3000 metres into the sky

Peru's Sabancaya volcano has erupted, sparking health warnings for those living in its vicinity.

After the eruption on Tuesday morning, residents of nearby Huanca and LLluta were urged to cover their faces and any standing water receptacles to stop volcanic material contaminating it. 

More than 10,000 people live within 30 kilometres of the volcano, located in Arequipa.

Sabancaya is one of Peru's most active volcanoes, according to the Global Volcanism Program. Its name translates to 'Tongue of Fire'.

Since 2016 the volcano has had ongoing ash emissions, thermal anomalies and numerous high sulfur dioxide plumes.